Even at a major automaker, a missing part from overseas can stop thousands of jobs and delay deliveries to dealers and customers. General Motors has temporarily laid off about 3,800 employees at its Wentzville, Missouri, assembly plant.

The three-week pause started Monday and runs through October 19. It affects most GM workers across all three shifts, though some skilled trades, body shop, and final process staff may still have work.

The layoffs hit teams building Chevrolet Colorado and Express trucks and GMC Canyon and Savana models.

GM said it is adjusting production schedules to deal with supply chain issues and meet broader business needs

Parts delays can shut down entire lines. A missing semiconductor, axle, or suspension component can halt production until a replacement arrives. These disruptions often force automakers to reroute shipments or shift schedules.

Wentzville has faced similar problems before

The plant shut down multiple times in 2021 during the global semiconductor shortage. In 2023, nationwide labor strikes caused further delays, Repairer Driver News shared.

What’s more, trucks require heavy-duty, specialized parts, which makes production especially sensitive. Even minor delays can ripple through the schedule and force temporary layoffs.

Employees received a notice from the plant’s executive director and the UAW Local 2250 chairman

In the layoff notice, GM officials thanked them for their flexibility and explained the pause. GM emphasized that the layoffs are temporary and specifically tied to supply chain and business needs. The automaker didn’t mention which parts are missing from the puzzle.